The access countdown falls from nine minutes as Orin’s recorder splits the node’s archive into maps, safeguards, and Ilyra’s authorization records. Maya remains at the forward corridor, Caelen at the ward controls, while Alzafar guards the junction and retreat.
Orin
The authorization file is branching again. One section will not copy through my recorder. It is opening only through Jostan’s restored access.
A narrow display forms above the dais, keyed to Jostan’s authenticated branch. It reveals a settlement contact protocol, followed by a red warning: OUTSIDERS ARE ASSESSED BEFORE THEY ARE RECEIVED.
Caelen
The disclosure is genuine. Its ward signature matches the origin node, and the warning is part of Ilyra’s original architecture, not an intrusion.
Maya
The corridor markings agree with the protocol. They guide visitors through a sequence of observation points, not a straight approach to the settlement.
Alzafar
Then the settlement will measure conduct before offering shelter. Keep the team together, and give it no reason to classify us as a threat.
The warning expands: SPEAK PLAINLY, PRESENT NO UNAUTHORIZED WEAPONS, ACCEPT THE FIRST TEST. The countdown reaches eight minutes as the route ahead illuminates one checkpoint at a time.
✓ Quest Accepted
Pass the settlement’s first test
“Giving my authentication for acess i say outloud, The Outsiders Accept the Test”
SUCCESS (Legendary Hacking, rolled +0)
Jostan Ordomo
The Outsiders accept the test.
Jostan places his authenticated hand against the access plate and speaks clearly. The restored branch records his declaration, accepting the settlement’s first assessment without opening another channel.
The warning clears. A sequence of observation points activates beyond the junction, and the node marks the team as acknowledged participants rather than an unauthorized intrusion.
Orin
Authentication accepted. The protocol is giving us a route and recording our conduct. That is considerably better than forcing another door.
Maya
Then we follow the marked points exactly. I will lead the approach and call out anything that changes.
The first checkpoint illuminates, revealing a narrow passage beneath the abandoned sector. The node’s countdown continues, but the accepted test has become a clear, authorized path forward.
Reach the hidden settlement
Quest Complete
Pass the settlement’s first test